Virginia State DMV Introduces New Real ID Compliant Driver’s License
RICHMOND, VA – The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced the introduction of a new Real ID compliant driver’s license for residents of the Commonwealth. The new driver’s license is part of the state’s efforts to enhance security measures and comply with federal regulations.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, including requirements for proof of identity and residency. The Act also prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant forms of identification for official purposes, such as boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.
Starting October 1, 2020, all U.S. residents will need a Real ID compliant driver’s license or identification card to board a domestic flight or enter a federal facility that requires identification. In preparation for this deadline, the Virginia DMV has begun issuing the new Real ID compliant driver’s licenses to residents who wish to obtain one.
To obtain a Real ID compliant driver’s license in Virginia, residents must visit a DMV customer service center in person and present certain documents to prove their identity and residency. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate or valid U.S. passport, a Social Security card or W-2 form, and two proofs of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. Once the documents have been verified, residents will receive a new driver’s license with a star in the top right corner, indicating that it is Real ID compliant.
“We are excited to introduce the new Real ID compliant driver’s license to Virginia residents,” said DMV Commissioner Richard Holcomb. “This new license is designed to provide an extra layer of security and peace of mind for our residents when traveling or accessing federal facilities.”
In addition to the Real ID compliant driver’s license, the Virginia DMV is also offering an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) for residents who frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean by land or sea. The EDL is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) and can be used in place of a passport for entry into these countries.
The introduction of the new Real ID compliant driver’s license has been met with mixed reactions from Virginia residents. Some see it as a necessary security measure to protect against identity theft and fraud, while others are concerned about the potential privacy implications of having their personal information stored in a government database.
“I understand the importance of having a secure form of identification, especially when traveling,” said Jane Smith, a resident of Richmond. “But I also worry about the government having access to my personal information. It’s a trade-off between security and privacy.”
Despite the concerns, many Virginia residents are already taking steps to obtain their new Real ID compliant driver’s license before the October 1 deadline. The Virginia DMV is encouraging residents to make an appointment at a customer service center as soon as possible to ensure they have the necessary documents and to avoid long wait times.
“We want to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible for our residents,” said Commissioner Holcomb. “By obtaining a Real ID compliant driver’s license early, residents can avoid any last-minute rush and ensure they are prepared for the upcoming deadline.”
For more information about the new Real ID compliant driver’s license and the requirements for obtaining one, residents can visit the Virginia DMV website or contact their nearest customer service center. With the deadline rapidly approaching, it is important for residents to act quickly and take the necessary steps to ensure they are prepared for the new requirements.
